William Saliba injury latest: Defender out of West Ham clash but will be available ‘in the next few weeks’ as Mikel Arteta provides fitness update

Arsenal’s key defender William Saliba has missed three consecutive games in the crucial Premier League title race run-in. 

Saliba has played a major part in the Gunners’ success this season, making his name as one of the best defenders in the top flight.

However, he was absent from wins over Crystal Palace and Leeds as well as a draw with Liverpool after picking up a back injury against Sporting Lisbon in the Europa League. 

Arsenal will be concerned that Saliba may miss even more games at the tail end of the season, with his absence possibly affecting their title hopes.

When will Saliba return? 

There is currently no set date for Saliba to return.  

Arteta had hinted at a possible comeback for the defender ahead of the Liverpool clash, however, he remained on the sidelines.

And he will now miss out on the Gunners’ meeting with West Ham too after the manager gave another update on Saliba’s fitness.

He said: “William Saliba is still not available. He is progressing well and we hope he will be available in the next few weeks.”

When asked whether Saliba was back training on grass, Arteta added: “He’s not far off starting to do that. Obviously, we need to be cautious because of the injury but he’s evolving well.”

Replacing Saliba has been Rob Holding, who has started all three games that his fellow centre-back has been out.

He is yet to keep a clean sheet but has performed well with Arteta pleased with how he has stepped up.

Speaking about the change at the back after the win against Crystal Palace, the Spaniard said: “We overcome those situations.

“Rob [Holding] came in and was brilliant. Everyone has to give another edge to be at the same level, it’s not a secret.

So while Saliba continues to recover, Holding will be tasked with helping the Gunners in their Premier League title bid.